358 | Peter Singer | The Ethics of Doing Good: A Wake-Up Call for the Comfortable

The Greatness Machine

What if doing the most good was simpler—and more within reach—than you ever imagined?

In this powerful episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius is joined by world-renowned moral philosopher Peter Singer for a conversation that will challenge how you think about ethics, generosity, and your role in making the world better.

Peter, best known for his groundbreaking work “The Life You Can Save,” shares thought-provoking insights on effective altruism, the moral obligations of those living in affluence, and how small, intentional actions can create ripple effects of real change. From fighting global poverty to advocating for animal rights, Peter’s work has inspired millions to rethink their impact—and today, he might just do the same for you.

In this episode, Darius and Peter will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to Effective Altruism

(06:11) Understanding Effective Altruism

(11:57) The Life You Can Save: A Nonprofit Overview

(18:05) Philanthropy and Meaning in Life

(23:55) Profit for Good: Business and Altruism

(24:54) Profit for Good Conference: A New Business Paradigm

(30:01) The Role of Bioethics in Modern Society

(37:32) Activism and Personal Motivation in Ethical Issues

(38:35) Reflections on Global Issues: Past and Present

(41:42) Making a Difference: Individual Impact and Career Choices

(47:07) Overcoming Barriers to Greatness

Peter Singer is an Australian moral philosopher known for his work in applied ethics from a utilitarian perspective. He is Emeritus Professor of Bioethics at Princeton University and author of Animal Liberation and the influential essay “Famine, Affluence, and Morality.” Singer has shifted from preference to hedonistic utilitarianism over his career. He founded Monash University’s Centre for Human Bioethics, co-founded Animals Australia, and established the nonprofit The Life You Can Save. Recognized as Australian Humanist of the Year in 2004, he is considered one of Australia’s most influential public intellectuals.

Sponsored by:

Huel: Try Huel with 15% OFF + Free Gift for New Customers today using my code greatness at https://huel.com/greatness. Fuel your best performance with Huel today!

Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/DARIUS.

Notion: Get Notion Mail for free right now at notion.com/machine.

ShipStation: Go to shipstation.com and use code GREATNESS to sign up for your FREE trial.

Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/darius.

Connect with Peter:

Website: https://www.petersinger.info/

Website: http://thelifeyoucansave.org/

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ee/podcast/lives-well-lived/id1743702376

Connect with Darius:

Website: https://therealdarius.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/

YouTube: https://therealdarius.com/youtube

Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708

Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices